'Beaver' Finds Foster & Gibson

Back in December news circulated around a script titled "The Beaver" which was a top of the much spoken of Black List in Hollywood. A few actors including Jim Carrey & Steve Carrell and directors like Jay Roach circled the project but no one bit, until now. Variety reports that actress/director Jodie Foster will direct and co-star in the film along side of Mel Gibson. In the script written by Kyle Killen, Gibson will play a depressed man who finds solace in wearing a beaver hand-puppet, Foster will play his wife. Producers Steve Golin and Keith Redmon are hoping for a September start date with the film to lense in New York.

This is not the first time Jodie Foster and Mel Gibson have worked together. The two did Maverick back in 1994 together and have always remarked that they would like to do another film together. Foster first found "The Beaver" and took it to Gibson as an opportunity for the two to work together again. Gibson and Foster had a outstanding chemistry in Maverick and despite "The Beaver" being a far more darker comedy, Gibson and Foster should prove to make an interesting film. "The Beaver" could also be a chance for Gibson to get back into good graces of cinema goer's, who have been unimpressed with his troubled past.

"The Beaver" remains at this time without a studio to back it. It is unclear whether the film will be picked up or go the indie route, either way the film is a cheap buy with only a $18 to $19 million dollar price tag. "The Beaver" furthermore may begin to look very appealing with such a small price tag and two very high calliber stars attached. I for one am excited to see Gibson back in a comedic role, even if the character development may be dark. Seeing Foster directing again is a nice surprise as well, her film Home for the Holidays is always a good laugh. More news to follow as it develops...

What say you? Does the duo of Gibson and Foster spark some enthusiasm for The Beaver? Strikeback...